The 8th annual edition of the hugely-popular race event drew more than 48,000 participants and saw top runners from Ethiopia and Kenya secure overall victories, reports the Bangkok Post.
Her Majesty Queen Suthida presided over the starting ceremony for the 42.195km marathon at the MBK Center in Pathumwan district at 2am, with the finish line set at Sanam Luang.
Among those attending were Deputy Prime Minister Thamanat Prompow, Tourism and Sports Minister Atthakorn Sirilatthayakorn, Tourism Authority of Thailand Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt, Sports Authority of Thailand Governor Gongsak Yodmani, race director Kobkiat Sangvanich, Muay Thai icon Buakaw Banchamek and Kenyan marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge, a two-time Olympic gold medallist.
Her Majesty later joined the 21.1km half marathon, running alongside Kipchoge and completing the course in 2 hours, 13 minutes, and 40 seconds.
The marathon winner was Bekele Agunafr of Ethiopia, who crossed the line in 2:14:00.
The men’s half-marathon champion was Itsuki Yumoto of Japan, finishing in 1:05:00, while Thai runner Piyanuch Sukchat was the first woman to complete the half-marathon, with a time of 1:25:00.
The event drew participants from over 80 nationalities and Her Majesty the Queen’s presence was met with widespread admiration, with many runners praising her as a powerful symbol of dedication and a compelling advocate for health, fitness and inspiration among the public and emerging athletes.
Many runners achieved new personal bests, thanks in part to the crisp morning temperature of 15°C – perfect conditions for the race. Spectators lined the route with enthusiastic cheers, creating an electric atmosphere from start to finish.
Her Majesty also officiated at the start of the 10km race and presented awards across all three distances.